How your Islamophobia is helping Islamic Radicalism.

There are many people who will tell you that Islam is a peaceful religion. There will be some who say that it does allow some violence, in some contexts, but not terrorism. But here’s the catch: by being islamophobic, you are adding fuel to the fire and leading to more Radicalism.

There are many ways that people will deal with attacks on the religion they belong to. One may be a practicing or a cultural Muslim, but when the conversation turns to terrorism and Islamic State, even the least practicing of us feel the need to defend ourself.

The reason is simple. It is a part of our identity. Just like we would defend India in front of an attack from a foreigner, despite not liking how we do things internally (Salman Khan, Dadri), similarly, we feel the need to make people see that there’s more than one version of the story.

However, there are people who are unclear about religion and morality. These may also be people who are experiencing a void in life and who need something strong to make life meaningful. Given their current spiritual state, your hatred will only push them towards radical teachings.

Why? It’s the logic of ‘let me commit the crime I’m already being punished for’. Since these young people are already facing discrimination, coupled with the wrong leaders and unclear principles and an empty life, they fall into the dangerous mix of radicalization.

If you would like to help this global problem, stop treating each Muslim you meet as a stereotypical presentation. There are varieties within. Even those on the precarious borders of violence, may yet be convinced with acceptance.

It is up to you, whether you choose to scorn at the headscarf or try to know deeply the mind within.